More and more cases of teenage depression are currently being reported. Parents often expect their adolescent children to be moody and may overlook the signs, however this is a condition that needs promp and appropriate treatment. These are some of the most common signs and symptoms which may indicate depression, they should have been present for a period of about 4 weeks:

• Poor performance in school
• Withdrawal from friends and activities
• Sadness and hopelessness
• Lack of enthusiasm, energy or motivation
• Anger and rage
• Overreaction to criticism
• Feelings of being unable to satisfy ideals
• Poor self-esteem or guilt
• Indecision, lack of concentration or forgetfulness
• Restlessness and agitation
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Substance abuse
• Problems with authority
• Suicidal thoughts or actions